Nominate your school for Derrytrasna Pastoral Care Awards
Date published:
The Department of Education, in partnership with the Public Health Agency, is seeking nominations for exceptional pastoral care in schools.
The Derrytrasna Pastoral Care Award provides recognition to school communities that have demonstrated exceptional co-operative effort in supporting the pastoral care of pupils and their families.
Education Minister Paul Givan said:
“Exceptional pastoral care is about the help and support offered to pupils by the school community to the challenges and difficulties young people face today. Schools that go above and beyond make a real difference to the lives of their pupils. There are many schools across Northern Ireland that provide exceptional care and they should be recognised for their important work in this area.”
Schools cannot self-nominate but pupils, parents or others in the wider school community can nominate a school that has provided exceptional pastoral care.
Maurice Meehan, Public Health Agency, said: “The Public Health Agency enthusiastically supports the Derrytrasna Pastoral Care Awards. Quality pastoral care is a key ingredient in supporting our children and young people to secure the best start in life. Students with strong pastoral support experience improved emotional, social and mental wellbeing, leading to reduced stress, anxiety and behavioural issues.”
Nominations for the Derrytrasna Pastoral Care Awards 2025 Awards can be made from 4 November 2024 to 13 December 2024 using the nomination form here: www.education-ni.gov.uk/articles/derrytrasna-award-pastoral-care
Notes to editors:
- The Derrytrasna Pastoral Care Award is named after St Mary’s Primary School in Derrytrasna, the school whose exceptional pastoral care for a terminally ill pupil inspired the award.
- St Columba’s Primary School, Belfast Boys’ Model School and Knockevin Special School were winners of the 2024 award, which covered the 2022/ 2023 academic year.
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